Prevent Medical Errors

Prevent Errors With Medicines

What to ask your doctor or pharmacist

What do you mean?
If you don't know why you're taking a medicine or how to take it, ask. Not
knowing how to follow instructions can cause errors with
medicine.

How do I take this? Make sure you
know how your doctor wants you to take your medicine. Write down how much
medicine you need to take, and how many times a day you take it.

How long do I take this? Find out if you need to finish the bottle of medicine or if you can stop taking the medicine when you feel better. Ask if you need to get a refill or if you can stop treatment when the bottle is empty.

Is it safe to take this medicine with other medicines? Taking certain medicines together may cause a bad reaction.
This is called an interaction. To make sure that you don't have a bad reaction
from your medicines, tell your doctor or pharmacist what other medicines or
supplements you are taking. And make a list of any medicines that you shouldn't
take.

Is there anything I shouldn't do?
Make sure you know about any foods, drinks, or activities you should avoid
while you take the medicine. Find out what medicines may not be safe to give
your child.

What do I do if I miss a dose?
With some medicines, you wait until the next time you take it. With others, you
need to make up the dose. The information sheet that comes with your medicine may tell you what to do if you miss a dose.

What are the side effects? Know what side effects you can expect and what to do if they
occur.

This form(What is a PDF document?) can help you know what to ask about a new medicine.